UCLA ousts athletic director Martin Jarmond, taps former Lakers executive Tim Harris to replace him

Los Angeles University has dismissed athletic director Martin Jarmond and appointed Tim Harris, a former top executive of the Los Angeles Lakers, to fill the role. Chancellor Julio Frenk announced the decision in a letter to the university community, stating it marks a "new path forward for UCLA Athletics." Jarmond, who held the position for six years, will step down immediately.

The UCLA Bruins secured three NCAA championships last year, including the inaugural victory for their women's basketball team. Harris, 64, will assume the roles of CEO and athletic director and will serve in a pro bono capacity. Graduating from UCLA in 1989 with a sociology degree, he played as a goalkeeper for the men's soccer team while at the university.

Harris spent over 35 years with the Lakers, resigning from the NBA franchise in February, four months after its sale to Dodgers owner Mark Walter. Among a close circle of Lakers officials, Harris received a significant financial bonus following the sale. Harris joined UCLA as athletic director in 2020, having previously served as president of business operations for the Lakers for many years.

During his tenure, the athletic department has consistently operated with yearly deficits, totaling $241 million over the past seven years. UCLA joined the Big Ten Conference two years ago, generating millions in media rights fees but also incurring higher travel costs, which decreased the deficit to $21.6 million for the 2025 fiscal year.

The financial strain on the university has led to repeated bailouts of the athletic department. Frenk cited the financial situation as a key reason for the change in leadership.